Benefits of Probiotics

Probiotics are often used to improve your own gut bacteria after using antibiotics, which can destroy your friendly bacteria.

Some people with lactose intolerance find that using probiotic products help them feel better.

Probiotics have been found helpful in preventing/treating urinary tract infections and yeast infections.

Those suffering from clostridium difficile have gotten some relief using probiotics in the length of their illness.

People who have irritable bowel syndrome may also benefit from the use of probiotics.

Some seniors may be taking probiotics in pill form, prescribed by their doctors, related to a medical condition or illness. These supplements contain these same strains of good bacteria and act in the same way as foods you may be adding to your diet.

Don’t stop taking the medication prescribed by your doctor thinking that a yogurt a day will be the same because the strain of culture or amount may not be equivalent and your senior’s health could be negatively impacted.

Things to Keep in Mind

If you decide to include probiotic products in your diet, be aware that you might experience some intestinal symptoms such as gas or bloating and even loose stools as your body adjusts to a new balance in friendly bacteria.

As a side note, continued research into the effects and benefits of food products containing live cultures so that accurate package claims can be made is ongoing.

If your senior has a normal, healthy intestinal system, he probably doesn’t need to go out of his way to eat these products. However, if your senior feels she could use more help to be regular, adding a few of these foods with active cultures might help her bowel health.

Either way, don’t forget yogurt is a good source of nutrients including protein and calcium, whether you are looking for intestinal health improvements or not!